well-bred
Americanadjective
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well brought up; properly trained and educated.
a well-bred boy.
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showing good breeding, as in behavior or manners.
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(of animals) of a desirable breed or pedigree.
adjective
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Also: well-born. of respected or noble lineage
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indicating good breeding
well-bred manners
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of good thoroughbred stock
a well-bred spaniel
Etymology
Origin of well-bred
First recorded in 1590–1600
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In one fell swoop, the well-bred cow showcased Brazil's prowess in the business of modern cattle ranching.
From National Geographic ● Jan. 24, 2024
This booming, endlessly interesting antihero comports himself as an entitled, well-bred gentleman who has tired of wearing dirty long johns and waiting for the universe to right his fortunes.
From New York Times ● Mar. 13, 2023
She added: "The public has the choice, choose healthy, well-bred dogs or choose this kind of exaggerated mutant. I wouldn't buy any of these dogs. I feel really sorry for them."
From BBC ● Jan. 23, 2023
“She’s a filly that’s really well-bred for this race. I think she’s got the right kind of disposition for it, and she’s given us every indication that she’s doing really well.”
From Seattle Times ● Jun. 7, 2022
I laughed to myself a long time afterward about how Ella's mouth flew open when we showed up at the front door—me and a well-bred Hill girl.
From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
